Streptococcus Pneumoniae

Streptococcus Pneumoniae is a rare bacteria that can cause pneumonia, meningitis or a blood stream infection. Although anyone can get invasive pneumococcal disease, it occurs more frequently in infants, young children, African Americans, some Native American populations, the elderly or in people with serious underlying medical conditions. It is spread by airborne or direct exposure to respiratory droplets from a person who is infected or carrying the bacteria. Symptoms generally include an onset of fever and shaking or chills. Other common symptoms may include headache, cough, chest pain, disorientation, shortness of breath, weakness and occasionally stiff neck.